Many states have an ongoing forum that birders report and read about birds in their state. IBET is a free group that anyone can join and add to, with just a few reasonable rules.
IBET has over 1200 members, making it the most widely used bird communication site in Illinois.
Positives of IBET
- Learn about new birding locations
- Up-to-date area sightings
- Rare bird alerts
- Archived reports
- Learn from other birders
Negatives of IBET
- Broadcasted sightings of nesting and rare birds, causing potential stress
- Lack of state-wide users; most are from the Chicago area
- Newer birders possibly not feeling post-worthy
IBET is a valuable source for birders, but could use improvement. IBET could benefit from a better format, such as a blog, or if it was integrated with eBird.
